david gregory's exclusive interview. we begin with kristen welker. >> the house is back in session and they could announce a deal as early as this afternoon. many saying this entire episode represents a lack of leadership on both sides of pennsylvania. with less than 48 hours until the tax hikes and spending cuts take effect, florida small business owner, gary simmons, is watching what happens in washington closely. >> it could directly impact our business if people do not have the extra dollars to come shopping. that hurts business. >> reporter: it is a frustration that is being felt coast to coast and christmas shoppers in california sound off. >> potentially, it will affect the middle class, which i am the most, right now. that's disappointing to me. >> reporter: with public pressure mounting, key staffers worked behind closed doors trying to hammer out a last-minute deal. in his weekly radio address, the president said, if lawmakers can't find a compromise, they should put his plan up for a vote. >> i will urge the s